How to Relieve a Stress Headache

A stress headache--also called a tension headache--is the most common type of headache. Pain can be moderate or severe, and it often feels as if a tight band is around the forehead. Easing a stress headache is tricky, and nervousness and anxiety can worsen symptoms. But there are techniques to relieve a stress headache and stop muscle tension.

Things You'll Need

• Medication
• Ice pack

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Instructions

• 1

  Take over-the-counter medications including ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin. This seems obvious, but many people don't know that these medications are designed specifically for stress or tension-type headaches. Take medication as directed to ease symptoms. Be careful how much you take; overdoing it can reduce the medicine's effectiveness or even cause rebound headaches.

• 2

  Drink caffeine. In moderation, caffeine can quickly ease a moderate or severe stress headache. However, over-consumption of caffeine can worsen symptoms or trigger a tension headache. Drink 1 to 2 8 oz. glasses of coffee, soda or other caffeinated beverage to relieve a stress headache.

• 3

  Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation increases your chances of developing a stress headache. Take a nap or sleep at least 8 hours a night to remedy a stress headache.

• 4

  Massage tense muscles. Tense facial muscles contribute to a stress headache. Close your eyes and gently massage your temples with your fingers. Relax your mind, body and face to relieve muscle tension.

• 5

  Apply a cold compress. Stress headaches respond to cold therapy. Apply an ice pack to your forehead in 10-minute intervals. For comfort, wrap the ice pack in a dry cloth before applying it to the forehead.